Try A "Park Model" RV For A Low-Cost Getaway

July 16, 2008    dial up broadband

Imagine having someone drive a tiny, city studio apartment to a campground and park it there for your summer vacation. Then you have an idea of what renting a "park model" is all about.

Renting an RV these days might seem out of the question, with the exorbitant price of gas and the upkeep. Now there's an alternative called "park models" at some private campgrounds. (There are a few within easy reach of the New York City area.)

Park models are 400-square foot cottages on wheels that travelers can rent out, usually for a minimum of two nights. It beats a hotel room because it's free-standing, has separate rooms for the kids and full-size appliances. Best of all, you don't have to tow it around. It's all set up for you once you arrive.

Strawberry Park in southeastern Connecticut is one campground with 35 park models for rent that gives campers free access to its pools, playgrounds and snack bars.

Park model rental rates at most northeastern private campgrounds range between $125 and $200 a night. To locate park models in our area, online, its www.gocampingamerica.com.

A seven-night park model rental at Strawberry Park is $1,280 for a family of five. For more, go to www.strawberrypark.net.